With ancient woodlands, rolling heaths, unspoiled coastlines, and famous ponies, the New Forest is one of the most spectacular areas in the country to visit. It’s no wonder so many people search for places to visit and things to do in the New Forest
But as well as its natural attractions & places, there is a wealth of things to do in the New Forest with activities to keep everyone happy, from outdoor adventurers and thrill seekers to heritage and history buffs.
Great things to do in the New Forest
Longdown Activity Farm is a fantastic family day for everyone! With friendly farm animals and hands-on activities throughout the day. Help feed the animals and let off some steam in the play areas and trampoline barn.
New Forest ActivitiesA great place for outdoor adventures is New Forest Activities in Beaulieu. Experts in delivering outdoor activities they can help you make the most of your New Forest adventure. There’s something for everyone from canoeing and kayaking to bushcraft, archery, and Battlefield LIVE.
The New Forest is such a beautiful place to explore, and there’s no better way to do that than with Cyclexperience. Rent bikes suitable for the whole family so that everyone can tag along for the adventure! Their New Forest cycle tours allow you to discover the varied landscapes of the New Forest National Park including the villages of Beaulieu, Burley, and Lyndhurst.
Looking to get the adrenaline really pumping? Then enjoy a family adventure at Paultons Park! With more than 70 exciting rides and attractions on over 140 acres of beautiful grounds, guests of all ages are guaranteed a fun-filled family day out!
Calshot Activities Centre delivers adrenaline-fuelled activities that get the heart racing and blood pumping! Whatever your age and whatever your skills – they’ve got something for the whole family to get involved. An Action Adventure Day is great way for children to try climbing, archery, skiing, watersports and more.
Discover world-famous history
Beaulieu is also home to the famous National Motor Museum and Palace House. Why not spend a day exploring one of the finest collections of cars, motorcycles, and motoring memorabilia in the world? Or take a ride on the Monorail and step back in time as you explore the fantastic Victorian gothic country house and get a taste of life ‘below stairs’?
A short trip from Beaulieu is Buckler’s Hard, a maritime museum on the banks of the Beaulieu River, giving an insight into the history of an 18th-century ship-building village. You can take a boat trip along the Beaulieu River – one of the few privately owned rivers in the world.
On the opposite side of the river, you can find Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway, a 200-acre site renowned for the Rothschild Collection of rhododendrons, azaleas, camellias, and rare trees. Meander through winding woodland pathways and riverside walks, feed giant koi carp, or hop aboard the miniature steam railway to enjoy the vibrant scenery in style.
Stunning places to visit in the New Forest
Explore the enchanted woodland and gardens that is Furzey Gardens here in the New Forest! The little ones will love an adventure here to spend time finding over 40 hidden fairy doors!
One of the main attractions of the New Forest is the wildlife. You can experience amazing animals in natural surroundings at the New Forest Wildlife Park, near Ashurst. Follow the woodland trails and discover fascinating facts about the animals you see. You might even catch a feeding time!
Visit Lepe Country Park, with over a mile of beach it’s a great day out for all. Whether spending the day searching for seashore crabs and building sandcastles or enjoying the play area or a stroll around the coast to the D-Day remains or through the local nature reserve, there’s lots to do. Finish your visit at The Lookout, Lepe’s restaurant with panoramic views over the Solent – a fantastic place to visit in the New Forest whatever the weather!
Don’t forget to download our vouchers to save on your days out here. Be sure to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for lots of family day-out ideas.